Grading & Drainage: Orland Park vs Tinley Park
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Orland Park, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Orland Park and Tinley Park have similar restriction levels.
Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park requires that grading and drainage on private property not adversely affect neighboring properties or Village streets and storm sewers. A grading permit may be required for substantial earthwork. The Village enforces drainage complaints under property maintenance and stormwater rules. Sump pump discharge to Village streets is regulated.
View full Orland Park rules →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Tinley Park regulates grading and drainage on residential properties to prevent water from being directed onto neighboring lots or creating flooding. Minor grade changes typically do not require a permit, but substantial grading requires a permit and must not alter established drainage patterns. Sump pump and downspout discharge must be directed to lawns or storm sewer, not onto neighbors or sanitary sewer.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Orland Park | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| Direction | Away from foundation | - |
| Sump to Sanitary | Prohibited | - |
| Downspout Distance | 5+ ft from foundation | - |
| Permit | Required for major earthwork | Large grading yes |
| Public Works | (708) 403-6350 | - |
| Drainage Pattern | - | Preserve established |
| Sump Discharge | - | Lawn or storm sewer |
| Sanitary Sewer | - | Discharge prohibited |
| Downspouts | - | Splash to lawn |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Orland Park FAQ
Can I regrade my Orland Park property?
Minor lawn grading is fine, but substantial regrading or fill that affects drainage requires a building or grading permit. The result must not divert runoff onto neighbors or Village streets.
Where can my sump pump discharge?
To the lot surface, a rear-yard swale, or an approved storm sewer connection. Discharge to the sanitary sewer is prohibited. Discharge that creates ice hazards on sidewalks may be cited.
My neighbor's drainage is flooding my yard. What can I do?
Contact Code Enforcement at (708) 403-6150 to investigate. Concentrated runoff diversion is a code violation. Civil remedies may also be available for property damage.
Tinley Park FAQ
Can I regrade my yard in Tinley Park?
Minor leveling is typically fine without a permit. Substantial grading, retaining walls, or changes that redirect water flow require a grading permit and review to ensure neighbors are not adversely affected.
Where should my sump pump discharge?
Sump pumps must discharge to your own lawn at least 5 feet from the foundation, or to the storm sewer with Village approval. Discharge to the sanitary sewer is prohibited and should be disconnected if discovered.
My neighbor's drainage floods my yard — what can I do?
Start with a conversation. If unresolved, contact Code Enforcement at (708) 444-5100 to investigate. Persistent issues may require a civil nuisance action under Illinois reasonable use principles.
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